Description
Objectives
Introduction to complex fluid physics and polarizing optical microscopy, NMR and X-ray diffraction techniques used in their characterization.
Syllabus
I. Introduction to complex fluids (CF), ionic liquids and mesomorphic systems. Thermotropic and liotropic liquid crystalline (LC) systems. LC in biology. Thermotropic LC properties. Nematic, smectic and columnar mesophases. Anisotropic character of mesophases. II. Experimental characterization of different types of CF. III. Properties of the nematic (N) and chiral nematic (N *), molecular order and statistical theories. Elasticity of orientation, interaction with electric and magnetic fields, Freedericksz transitions and electro-optical devices. IV. Polarizing optical microscopy and textures and defects in nematics. V. Introduction to X-ray diffraction techniques applied to CF. Bragg's law. Crystal lattices. Reciprocal network. X-ray diffraction patterns in CF. VI. NNR in order and dynamics studies in CF. Bloch equations. Interactions of nuclear spins. Density matrix. Spin echoes. Proton and deuterium NMR spectroscopy and relaxometry. Molecular movements and relaxation mechanisms.
Prerequisites
To have completed the 1º cycle of any IST engineering degree or equivalent.
Cross Competence Component
Inovative and criative thought (criativity, strategic thought, problem solving aproaches): use and tranposition of the information/knowledge received from the teachers to work in the labortory. Interpersonal skils (oral presentations, team work): involvement in the research group meetings Personal Skils (self-discipline, enthusiasm, persistence, self-motivation): organization of the laboratory work in the context of a research unit. Global citizenship (tolerance, open mindedness, respect diversity, intercultural understanding): laboratory work conducted within the context of a research unit with students from different countries. Media and Information Literacy (hability to locate, access, and evaluate information on the internet): within the context of the laboratory work. The evaluation of the soft skils is made within the context of the laboratory activity.
Laboratorial Component
- Characterization of complex fluids by polarizing optical microscopy. Phase transition temperatures and textures. - Recording and analysis of X-ray diffraction patterns in different types of complex fluids. - Recording and analysis of proton, carbon 13 and deuterium NMR spectra in different types of complex fluids. - Studies of proton relaxometry in different types of complex fluids.
Ethical Principles
All members of a group are responsible for the group’s work In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used. In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.